PGC NEWS

Deemo holds a special place in the hearts of rhythm game enthusiasts. Known for its poignant story and beautiful music, the franchise has cultivated a dedicated following. Now, with Deemo: Reborn, Rayark attempts to breathe new life into the classic formula with updated graphics, VR support, and a return of beloved tracks. But does Reborn live up to the legacy of its predecessors, or is it simply a rushed remaster? Let’s dive in and find out.

A Deeper Dive into a Familiar Tale

Deemo: Reborn opens with a familiar scene: a young girl falling from the sky into the waiting arms of a mysterious black creature. However, this time around, the narrative goes beyond simply playing songs and watching cutscenes. Reborn incorporates light RPG elements and significantly more dialogue, fleshing out the story in meaningful ways. While the core narrative remains unchanged, the storytelling is more nuanced. Details about Deemo and Alice’s identities, the masked girl, and Deemo’s motivation are cleverly interwoven throughout the gameplay. The inclusion of “Easter eggs,” such as the books in the library hinting at Alice’s real-world coma and the parable of the sapling and the tree, adds depth and intrigue to the experience.

alt: Deemo playing the piano for Alice in Deemo: Reborn

Challenging Rhythms and Gameplay

Of course, the heart of Deemo is its music, and Reborn doesn’t disappoint. After a slightly lengthy tutorial, the gameplay reveals itself to be anything but perfunctory. Even the “Easy Mode” presents a surprising challenge, requiring players to utilize both rows of buttons and the L and R shoulder buttons. This complexity, unusual for the easy difficulty of most rhythm games, can be daunting for newcomers. The game’s difficulty stems from its core mechanics. Unlike games like Project Diva or Taiko Master, which often use fewer buttons at easier difficulties, Deemo: Reborn demands a higher level of coordination from the start. This inherent difficulty, however, is part of what makes Reborn so engaging. The challenge, reminiscent of the “masocore” appeal of games like Dark Souls, becomes strangely addictive.

alt: Screenshot of Deemo: Reborn gameplay showing the falling notes

A Vast Musical Journey

Deemo: Reborn features over 290 songs, ensuring a diverse and extensive musical experience. Each track evokes a different mood, ranging from melancholic and somber to upbeat and energetic. The game’s somber tone, while consistent, is punctuated by heartwarming moments. A particularly poignant example is the story of the flower painting, symbolizing the cycle of life and growth, mirroring human experiences of resilience and change. These small, emotional narratives are woven into the game’s fabric, creating a tapestry of complex feelings.

Frustrations and Shortcomings

Despite its strengths, Deemo: Reborn has its share of flaws. The much-touted VR implementation feels underwhelming. The rapid-fire nature of the notes makes playing in VR significantly more challenging than on a flat screen. The camera controls are also restrictive, limiting interaction with the environment. The graphical upgrade, while noticeable, feels somewhat rough, with a persistent blur regardless of display mode. Character movements are sluggish, and facial expressions are limited, though the voice acting helps to convey emotion. The puzzles, while thematically interesting, lack depth and challenge. Many are solved through trial and error, making them feel more like busywork than engaging gameplay.

alt: Alice looking at Deemo in Deemo: Reborn

A Final Verdict

Deemo: Reborn offers a nostalgic return to a beloved rhythm game franchise. Its expanded story, vast song library, and challenging gameplay will resonate with fans. However, the lackluster VR implementation, rough graphics, and simplistic puzzles hold it back from reaching its full potential. While Reborn successfully expands on the original’s emotional core, it falls short of being a true reimagining.

alt: A masked figure in Deemo: Reborn